Class Code 8046
Stores – Auto/Truck Parts Or Accessories
Class Code 8046 covers retail and warehouse operations that sell, stock, and distribute auto and truck parts and accessories. The September 1, 2026 approved pure premium is $3.478 per $100 of payroll. For California employers this classification matters because it reflects the specific loss risks of parts counters, stock crews, yard staff and small-installation tasks.
What Class Code 8046 Covers
This code applies to businesses whose primary activity is operating a store or warehouse that sells automotive or truck replacement parts and accessories to retail customers, repair shops, or fleet accounts. Typical operations include counter sales and product identification, order picking and parts staging, receiving and inspecting incoming shipments, outdoor parts yard and pallet handling, simple customer-directed installations (wiper blades, bulbs, batteries, belts), and basic electrical/battery testing. It also covers parts stores that package and ship parts, maintain inventory, and operate pallet jacks or forklifts to move heavy components. Heavy repair or full vehicle maintenance performed in a separate repair bay is not covered by this retail classification.
Who It Applies To
- Independent auto parts retail stores and national chain parts counters
- Parts warehouse employees who service retail or wholesale customers
- Store counter sales associates and parts specialists
- Stock clerks and yard personnel who load/unload pallets and parts
- Employees performing limited installations or testing (batteries, bulbs)
Common Job Duties
- Assisting customers at the parts counter and identifying correct components
- Picking and packing parts from shelves and racking for retail or shipping
- Receiving, inspecting, and staging incoming shipments of parts and accessories
- Operating pallet jacks and, where authorized, powered industrial trucks
- Testing batteries and charging equipment; installing small items like wipers or bulbs
- Handling and storing chemicals/consumables (battery acid, cleaners, antifreeze)
Common Injury Risks
Understanding the $3.478 Rate
The pure premium of $3.478 per $100 of payroll represents the WCIRB's estimate of expected claim costs for losses only. To calculate the pure loss cost, multiply payroll by $3.478 and divide by $100 (for example, $100,000 payroll → $3,478 expected losses). The final premium an employer pays will include insurer expense loads, profit, policy discounts, experience modification (XMOD), payroll audits, classification accuracy, and any retrospective or deductible arrangements.
Cal/OSHA Compliance Requirements
California employers must maintain an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) and comply with Cal/OSHA Hazard Communication (GHS) rules to manage battery acid and solvents — SDSs must be available and employees trained. Powered industrial truck operation requires certified training and documented evaluations; ladder and manual handling safety and spill containment are common enforcement areas. Stores with outdoor yards should also implement heat illness prevention and proper battery recycling/containment per state hazardous materials guidance.
How Key HR Helps Employers Under Class Code 8046
A PEO like Key HR helps auto parts stores by centralizing claims handling, administering return-to-work programs, and delivering targeted safety training (forklift certification, battery handling, SDS management). Key HR can also perform payroll classification audits, provide IIPP templates, coordinate medical management with preferred networks, and help reduce experience mods and overall workers' comp costs through proactive loss control.
Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Are delivery drivers for my parts store included in Class Code 8046?
If drivers spend most of their time working in the store, loading/unloading and assisting counter operations, they are often included. If their primary duty is vehicle driving and delivery, they may require a transportation/drivers classification — discuss payroll split and duties with your PEO or insurer to avoid misclassification.
What are the most effective ways to lower workers' comp costs for an auto parts store?
Focus on reducing preventable losses: train and certify powered industrial truck operators, enforce safe lifting techniques and mechanical aids for heavy items, maintain good housekeeping to prevent spills, implement battery handling and spill response procedures, and establish a formal return-to-work program to reduce indemnity payments and speed recoveries.
Which Cal/OSHA citations should I prepare for during an inspection?
Inspectors commonly cite failures in Hazard Communication (missing SDS or training), lack of a written IIPP, untrained forklift operators, inadequate PPE or eye wash for battery work, and poor spill containment/housekeeping. Having SDSs, training records, certified operator lists, and documented safety procedures readily available helps avoid citations.
Quick Facts
- Class Code
- 8046
- Classification
- Stores – Auto/Truck Parts Or Accessories
- Pure Premium Rate
- $3.478 / $100 payroll
- Effective Date
- September 1, 2026
- Source
- WCIRB Approved Filing
Manage Workers' Comp Through a PEO
Key HR provides pay-as-you-go workers' comp for California employers — no large deposits, no audits, better rates.
Get a Quoteor call (800) 922-4133Ready to Simplify Workers' Comp for Class Code 8046?
Key HR provides California employers with pay-as-you-go workers' comp, HR compliance support, and payroll — all through one PEO partnership.